Tampa, Fla. – A blistering heat index is set to bake the Tampa area on Wednesday, creating dangerous conditions before afternoon thunderstorms bring needed, but potentially disruptive, rain. Temperatures are expected to soar to 95 degrees, though it will feel as hot as 103°F due to humidity. This intense heat will pose a significant health risk, especially for vulnerable populations. Drivers along I-275, I-4, and the Veterans Expressway should prepare for difficult evening commutes as storms could produce sudden downpours and slick roads.
According to the National Weather Service in Tampa Bay, scattered showers and thunderstorms will develop after 2 p.m. Wednesday. The chance of precipitation stands at 50%. A light west wind around 5 mph will offer little relief from the oppressive heat during the afternoon. The storm threat continues into the evening, with scattered thunderstorms likely before 2 a.m. Wednesday night, as temperatures dip to a low of around 78 degrees.
This pattern of intense daytime heat followed by afternoon storms will lock in place through the Juneteenth holiday and the upcoming weekend. Thursday’s outlook mirrors Wednesday’s, with a high near 95 degrees and a 50 percent chance of scattered thunderstorms, mainly after 2 p.m. The storm chances increase heading into the weekend.
Friday, Saturday, and Sunday all carry a 60 to 70 percent chance for showers and thunderstorms, primarily in the afternoon and evening hours. High temperatures will consistently remain in the mid-90s. Residents should schedule any outdoor holiday or weekend plans for the morning hours to avoid the peak heat and the highest likelihood of rain. This prolonged stretch of hot and stormy weather will continue into early next week, with Monday also showing a high near 95 and a 60 percent chance of precipitation.
Here is the five-day forecast for Tampa:
- Wednesday: High 95°F / Low 78°F – Scattered T-Storms
- Thursday (Juneteenth): High 95°F / Low 78°F – Scattered T-Storms Likely
- Friday: High 94°F / Low 77°F – Showers Likely then Scattered T-Storms
- Saturday: High 94°F / Low 77°F – Showers and Thunderstorms Likely
- Sunday: High 94°F / Low 78°F – Showers and Thunderstorms Likely
